Exploring Female Students' Experiences of ADHD and its Impact on Social, Academic, and Psychological Functioning

J Atten Disord. 2023 Aug;27(10):1129-1155. doi: 10.1177/10870547231168432. Epub 2023 Apr 25.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of research is to provide greater understanding of ADHD in adult females by exploring first-hand experiences of female university students with ADHD in the UK, and the impact of such experiences on social, academic, and psychological functioning.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight adult women attending university in the UK-all clinically diagnosed with ADHD during adulthood.

Results: Participants experiences were rich and insightful, identifying that many women with ADHD experience stigmatization and social discrimination, amongst other social, academic, and psychological difficulties.

Conclusion: Overall, the research identifies the pressing need for greater understanding and appreciation of ADHD in females, particularly amongst health professionals.

Keywords: ADD/ADHD; ADHD-associated problems; females; gender bias.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Students / psychology
  • Universitäten